A seamless way to pay, receive, send, buy and borrow through WhatsApp
FNB has expanded its eWallet onto WhatsApp, creating a simpler digital entry point into formal financial services for millions of South Africans who may not have traditional bank accounts. The enhanced service allows customers to onboard in minutes and progressively unlock an ecosystem of everyday financial services. Delivered through WhatsApp, a familiar low data channel, the new eWallet reduces friction for the unbanked, underserved, and underbanked users seeking a safe and convenient way to move and manage their money. Previously, an eWallet could only be created when an FNB account holder sent money. Now, new customers can create their own eWallet on WhatsApp.
As a purpose led organisation, the bank continues to prioritise financial inclusion by designing accessible, secure and intuitive services that empower more South Africans to manage their money confidently and participate fully in the digital economy.
Lytania Johnson, CEO of FNB Personal Segment, says the enhancement marks a major milestone in the bank’s ongoing commitment to broaden access to digital financial services. “For over a decade, eWallet has enabled millions of South Africans to send and receive money safely and conveniently. This evolution strengthens that foundation by introducing a more seamless, secure, and intuitive digital wallet for customers who need simple and affordable solutions. Our focus remains on expanding access to safe, modern ways of transacting and lowering barriers to entry into the formal financial system.”
FNB Bank Executives. Photo supplied
The evolution builds on eWallet’s reputation for simplicity, safety and reliability, while introducing enhanced functionality and, where appropriate, higher transaction limits aligned to customer profiles. In the past year, customers sent over R43 billion via eWallet, with 69 million transactions processed, underscoring its position as one of South Africa’s most trusted digital money transfer solutions.
Customers can now register directly through WhatsApp, making onboarding even more convenient for new users. The enhanced platform enables instant payments, prepaid purchases, cash withdrawals at various retailers (Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Pick n Pay, PEP, Ackermans, selected Spar stores for new customers), and cash advances ranging from R50 to R500, all through a streamlined and user-friendly interface that simplifies everyday banking for millions of South Africans.
Hema Morar, FNB eWallet Executive, says the evolution is designed to be fast, secure, scalable and interoperable. “At its core, eWallet is about dignity, access, and possibility. Every enhancement we’ve made is designed to make life a little easier for someone, whether it’s a parent sending money home, a young person taking their first step into digital banking, or a small business owner transacting safely. When people can move their money simply and securely, it opens doors, reduces stress, and helps support the goals and responsibilities they carry every day.”
The enhanced eWallet also aligns with South Africa’s broader payments modernisation agenda, including interoperable payment services such as PayShap. By integrating into the industry’s modern payment rails and FNB’s wider payments ecosystem, eWallet’s evolution enables broader participation in the digital economy and reduces reliance on cash.
“Through this integration, we’re creating a more unified payments experience that reflects how South Africans live, work, and transact today,” she adds.
Photo supplied
Key features of the enhanced eWallet include:
| Create your own eWallet on WhatsApp for new customers (Anyone can have an eWallet. No need to wait for an FNB customer or anyone to send you an eWallet, create own wallet on WhatsApp) |
| Cash Advance for new customers (borrow from R50 – R500) |
| eWallet using WhatsApp as a banking channel |
| Send an eWallet from your eWallet on WhatsApp |
| Make, instant, real-time payments with PayShap |
| Buy Electricity, Airtime & Entertainment Vouchers |
| Get your cash from Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Pick n Pay, PEP, Ackermans, Selected Spar for new customers |
| Managing bill payments and pay using eWallet @ Fuel Stationsand selected Spar stores |
| Pay and Get Paid from eWallet into any bank account(for new customers) |
| Withdraw from a Spaza shop /Agency Plus |
| Customers can transact on USSD and the FNB App as well |
As more customers adopt digital solutions for everyday financial needs, eWallet provides a dependable, future fit platform that supports individuals and families across South Africa.
“We are deeply excited about the impact that the growth and enhancement of the eWallet platform will have on our customers’ daily lives. For many, having a simple, safe and affordable way to move money is not just a convenience, it’s a lifeline. These enhancements are designed to ease the pressures of everyday life, help families support each other more easily, and give more people the confidence to participate in the digital economy.
When financial inclusion becomes the norm, households become more resilient, opportunities grow, and nations advance. FNB is committed to playing its part in making that progress real for millions of South Africans,” concludes Johnson.